The meeting started with introductions and a question, “Are you equipped to operate your radio when the electricity is out?” As is the case in most all EAWA monthly meetings, the agenda flowed through old and new business. Of note were three items. First, a reminder that the Maine QSO Party is September 28, Second, In the name of the club, Stan W1BOY and Marion W1GRL donated sponsorship money for the winning plaque in the Formula High Power category of the upcoming 2025 CQ DX Marathon contest. They wanted to honor the club by having “Sponsored by the Ellsworth Amateur Wireless Association” on the first place plaque.
The third item of note was an overview of the emergency communications efforts for the MDI Marathon on October 20. Barbara discussed what volunteers should bring, including equipment, weather protection, food, and water. She also discussed the need to be prepared for any type of injury or emergency, including the extreme, such as a runner being hit by a cyclist or car. The radio coverage of the race is highly organized into teams with precise instructions. If you are interested in participating but have not yet contacted someone in the EAWA, it is critical that you do so immediately and plan to attend the next club meeting on October 10.
Following the business meeting and an intermission for some sweet treats (thanks Bernie KI4VCR), Phil N1EP gave a presentation on the National Traffic System and Radiograms. He shared some of the history of the program and the new NTS 2.0. (See https://www.arrl.org/nts/ and https://nts2.arrl.org/ for more information.) Within the NTS system we are in the Eastern Area Net, and more specifically 1RN or the 1st region. Phil provided details for the primary Maine Nets: Maine Seagull Net (voice), Pine Tree Net (cw), Maine Public Service Net (voice), and Maine Slow Speed Net (cw). Time and frequencies for these are in a photo below. The heart of Phil’s presentation centered around how to record a message (traffic) on the ARRL Radiogram form. He concluded with several funny examples to make some key points.
The meeting topics were good reminders that, particularly with winter on the way, now is the time to make sure we are prepared to use our radios in difficult conditions.
Written by Marion W1GRL
W1TU 